Thursday, April 12, 2012

Take a Picture Walk


When you introduce a new story book try going through the book page by page with your preschooler, just looking at the pictures. Early childhood educators call this a picture walk, and it is something your preschooler will probably do in school. Ask him to tell you what he thinks is happening on each page. You are helping him develop important reading skills as he interprets the rich information that illustrations offer. Then go back and read the book. See how his ideas match up with the story that is actually told.

What I think . . .

There are all kinds of readers. Some—like my daughter and me—are never without a book to read for pleasure. Others—like my son—are careful, analytical, and curious readers who read primarily to seek information from the page.


No matter what kind of reader your child becomes, you can help him or her get started. After all, you are your child’s first teacher. And, best of all, you can have some fun in the process.


Please feel free to share your own ideas. Tell me about ways you've enjoyed reading with your child.


Madeline Boskey, Ph.D.